Tag Archive: world news – intermediate

How white roofs cool homes in Indian slums

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©Mitul Kajaria Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. How does the color of a roof affect the temperature inside a building? How do white roofs impact energy consumption and utility costs for homeowners? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. unbearable /uhn-BAIR-uh-buhl / [adjective] – too painful or unpleasant for you to continue to experience The heat inside the classroom during the summer was unbearable, making it difficult for the students to concentrate on their studies. effective /ih-FEK-tiv/ [adjective] – successful or achieving the results that you want Using flashcards can be an effective way for students to…
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Canada implements nationwide ban on animal testing for cosmetics

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are your thoughts on using animals to test cosmetic products? Do you think using animals to test cosmetic products is right and acceptable? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. ban /ban/ [noun] – an official order that prevents something from happening The country enacted a ban on the importation of certain endangered animal products to combat the illegal wildlife trade. prohibit /proh-HIB-it/ [verb] – to officially refuse to allow something The restaurant has a sign that prohibits smoking in outdoor dining areas. accessible /ak-SES-uh-buhl/ [adjective] –…
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Safety tips for outdoor adventures

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Why is it important to be prepared and informed before embarking on outdoor adventures? What are some common risks and hazards associated with outdoor activities? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. cautious /KAW-shuhs/ [adjective] – Someone who is cautious avoids risks Before crossing the busy street, it is important to be cautious and look both ways to ensure your safety. confidently /KAAN-fuh-duhnt-lee/ [adverb] – in a way that shows you are certain of your abilities or have trust in people, plans, or the future Despite being nervous, she stood up in…
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The fascination with “ugly” animals

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©Getty Images Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What do you think defines an animal as “ugly” in the eyes of humans? How does society’s perception of beauty influence our attitudes toward animals? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. affection /uh-FEK-shuhn/ [noun] – a feeling of liking for a person or place Maria showed affection for her little sister by giving her a warm hug and a gentle smile. standard /STAN-derd / [noun] – a level of quality The teacher explained that it was important to follow the standard rules of grammar when writing an essay. appreciate…
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The fascinating story of Klimt’s “Lady with a Fan” painting

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©Alamy Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. Have you ever tried painting before? If yes, what kind of painting did you do? If not, what do you think it would be like to paint? Can you name any famous painters from history? What do you know about their work or their style? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. discover /dih-SKUHV-er/ [verb] – to find information, a place, or an object, especially for the first time During our science class, we will discover fascinating facts about the planets in our solar system. fancy /FAN-see/ [adjective] – decorative or…
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Why are orcas suddenly ramming boats?

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is the general behavior of orcas in the wild, and how does this recent behavior differ? Do you think orcas are naturally aggressive? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. puzzle /puhz-uhl/ [verb] – to cause someone to feel confused and slightly worried because they cannot understand something Solving the math problems on the test puzzled Sarah, but she kept trying her best to find the correct answers. investigate /in-VES-ti-geyt/ [verb] – to examine a crime, problem, statement, etc. carefully, especially to discover the truth The detective…
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Heatwaves in parts of Asia push human life to the edge of survival

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are heatwaves? How can heatwaves endanger human life? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. intense /in-TENS/ [adjective] – extreme and forceful or (of a feeling) very strong The intense focus and concentration of the students during the exam showed their determination to achieve high grades. surge /surj/ [noun] – a sudden and great increase The surge of support from the community allowed the non-profit organization to expand its services and reach more people in need. alongside /uh-LAWNG-SAHYD/ [preposition] – next to, or together with The new housing development was built…
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New Zealand plans to eliminate rats for wildlife conservation

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. In what ways, if any, do you think rats can be beneficial to humans? Do you believe that rats should be eliminated from certain environments? Why or why not? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. gather /GATH-er/ [verb] – When people or animals gather, they come together in a group During the school field trip, we gathered at the entrance of the museum before exploring together as a group. determination /dih-tur-muh-NEY-shuhn/ [noun] – the ability to continue trying to do something, although it is very difficult Despite facing numerous challenges, she…
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Race against extinction: Indochina leopards need immediate protection

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What is a leopard? Why are leopards important to the ecosystem? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. extinction /ik-STINGK-shuhn / [noun] – a situation in which something no longer exists The relentless hunting of elephants has put them on the brink of extinction. comprehensive /kom-pri-HEN-siv/ [adjective] – complete and including everything that is necessary The comprehensive guidebook provided detailed instructions and step-by-step procedures to help users navigate through the complex software. initiative /ih-NISH-uh-tiv/ [noun] – a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem The nonprofit organization launched…
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Mid-career workers pursuing their dream jobs

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Pre-reading questions: I will read each question. Then, please answer them. What are some common challenges that mid-career workers face when pursuing their dream jobs? What factors might motivate mid-career workers to pursue their dream jobs? Vocabulary: I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me. chase /cheys/ [verb] – to try to get something that is difficult to get or achieve The ambitious student chased after their dream of becoming a doctor, working hard and studying diligently to achieve their goal. bravery /BREY-vuh-ree/ [noun] – brave behavior or actions Despite feeling scared, Sarah summoned up her bravery and stood up to the bully, defending her…
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